On January 24, National Girl Child Day is celebrated, marking the anniversary of the 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao Scheme' initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 22, 2015. As part of the commitment to empower and educate girl children, various government departments and private organizations offer scholarships and fellowships. Here is a list of notable opportunities:

Begum Hazrat Mahal National Scholarship

• Eligibility: Minority community girl students in Classes 9 to 12.


• Application Period: Tentatively begins in September.


• Benefits: Financial assistance including tuition fee support.

Post-Graduate Indira Gandhi Scholarship for Single Girl Child

• Eligibility: Single girl child of parents pursuing a full-time master’s degree programme.


• Application Period: Generally opens in January.


• Purpose: Support postgraduate studies with a focus on empowering single girl children.

CBSE Merit Scholarship Scheme for Single Girl Child

• Eligibility: Only child in the family, securing 60% in Class 10 from a CBSE-affiliated school, currently in Class 11 in the same school.


• Application Period: Open till October.


• Benefits: Rs 500 per month with a 10% enhancement in Class 11 and Class 12.

AICTE Pragati Scholarship for Girls

• Eligibility: First-year students in technical diploma or degree courses at AICTE-recognized institutions.


• Application Period: Typically opens in September and closes in October.


• Purpose: Financial aid to support the continuation of technical education.

Women Scientist Scheme-B (WOS-B)

Eligibility: Women scientists/technologists between 27 and 57 years of age.

Application Period: Typically begins in February.

Purpose: Encourage women scientists to take a break in their careers.

These scholarships and fellowships contribute significantly to the educational empowerment of female students, fostering a supportive environment for their academic pursuits. Celebrating National Girl Child Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to ensure equal opportunities and empowerment for girls across the country.

News Source: The Indian Express